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For 2022 we’ve got an all-new Nissan Pathfinder.
And based on first impressions, the Pathfinder’s future looks promising.

Starting with style, the 2022 Pathfinder has a rugged, modern presence that looks infinitely cooler than the smooshy 4th-generation model. (still of 2021 Pathfinder) Let’s all take a moment to appreciate the Pathfinder’s new look.


The cabin’s colors and textures suggest premium aspirations for the Nissan brand. We’ve got stitching on the dash and diamond patterns on the seats, and lots of upscale materials. To me, the interior looks classy. And I mean ‘classy’ in a good way.

This being the loftiest leather-clad Platinum version, it’s got an upscale vibe.

Lower trims will feel more elemental, but even minus fancy touches, the Pathfinder’s interior layout works great. The controls are simple to use, the standard 8-inch or optional 9-inch touchscreen is placed high near the driver’s line of sight, and there’s a handy under-console storage area made possible by the new electronic shifter.


Of course, as a family-oriented, midsize 3-row SUV that can carry up to 8 occupants, the big question is how well people fit inside.

In addition to the standard 8 passenger interior, you can also spec a 7-passenger interior with 2nd-row captain’s chairs and an easily removable center console. Beyond passenger space, the other big question with an SUV like this is cargo room. With the 3rd row raised, there’s still a healthy 16.6 cu-ft available.

Drop the 3rd row for 45 cu-ft. Those figures are slightly smaller than the Kia Telluride’s but just barely. And for better managing hauls from the grocery store, the Pathfinder features Nissan’s Divide N Hide cargo management system.

And now, the part I’m most thrilled about. The powertrain.


All 2022 Pathfinders will utilize a 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6 engine (284hp, and 259 lb-ft) matched with…wait for it…a 9-speed automatic transmission. I can’t tell you how nice it’ll be not to complain about the former Pathfinder’s continuously variable transmission anymore. Ah.

For getting power to the ground front-wheel drive is standard while a 7-mode all-wheel-drive system, which Nissan refers to as 4-wheel drive, is optional.

Oh, and if you plan to tow.

The Pathfinder maxes out at a stout 6,000 pounds.

As for features, a basic 2022 Pathfinder includes 3-zone climate control, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, and 10 airbags.


Higher trims add stuff like a 360-camera system, ventilated front seats, a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, and full-speed dynamic cruise control.


It’s been a while, but it looks like the Nissan Pathfinder is finally ready to legitimately compete against midsize 3-row SUV like the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, Ford Explorer, and Hyundai Palisade. And no, I don’t know how much it’ll cost yet. But let’s just guess somewhere in the low $30,000 range, when the Pathfinder goes on sale in the summer of 2021.


I don’t want to get my hopes up too much, but this is the first Pathfinder in forever that I’m truly excited to drive. Good job making me feel an emotion, Nissan!

00:00 2022 Nissan Pathfinder
0:18 Exterior
0:53 Interior
3:42 Engine
4:15 Features
4:50 Competitors